Student budgeting is hard to manage as it is. With such a limited amount of money, there are far too many fees you have to all take into account for. You have tuition, miscellaneous, residence and food fees you have to consider among the many. The truth is—most students are barely getting by, and even with help from one’s parents, budgeting is still a tricky thing to do.

In order to take budgeting to the extreme, there are practical tips for you to follow in order to cut back on groceries cost and accommodate your student allowance better.

Grocery store
As the old saying goes, it is never wise to head to the grocery store on an empty stomach. When you are hungry, chances are your rational thinking will be overclouded by the thoughts of food – and so you are most likely to buy more than what you need and even make impulse purchases.

Head to the store after a big, satisfying meal with a list of what you need to purchase. Consider buying store brands if you want to spend less. If you live with roommates, pitch in the idea of cooking together and going in on meals.

Limit your night outs
As much as it is tempting to dine out several times a week (especially when you’re feeling down or short on time to prepare your meals personally), these fees can only accumulate over time. Meaning the more frequent you eat out, the more it’ll hurt your limited student budget.

This doesn’t mean you cannot eat out at all – but only do so once a week. Take into account your budget and make wise decisions based on it. When you head out to eat, visit stalls for cheaper options or restaurants which offer discounts.

Meal plans
Some colleges offer meal plans which greatly helps in reducing your fees for the semester. Sometimes, it comes along with your residential costs. Don’t splurge on the pricey options, though. Be practical and choose a meal plan that is enough to keep you full and fits your budget at the same time. This is one fool proof way to limit your food expenditures.

Even if there aren’t any in your college, you can always opt to dine in the campus cafeteria in order to cut back on dining costs. Being a college student is rough, but hey, at least you’ll be surrounded with your peers and other students while enjoying a hearty meal.